This unflinchingly honest memoir chronicles not only Maynard's young years, the devastation of Salinger's dismissal, and her painful re-entry into the world, but also her failed marriage, the loss of her parents, and her struggle to rebuild at mid-life. Maynard explores the pain and confusion of early heartbreak as well as the wisdom, redemption, and triumph acquired when -- seeing her own daughter turn 18 herself -- she at last embraces the disquieting truths of her history, and dares to break free of paralyzing shame and silence.

Met with virtually unprecedented controversy at its publication, At Home in the World has outraged some and inspired others. It's a coming-of-age story that will be hard to put down, from its touching, funny, and occasionally heartbreaking beginnings to its gripping resolution.